Schmick runs for office

Looks to help ag, businesses, education

ADAMS COUNTY — Incumbent Joe Schmick is running for election to state representative position two for the Ninth Legislative District because he still has several goals he hopes to achieve.

He was appointed to the position last year.

Schmick said he is running for the position because he lives there and has seen the cities struggle economically when jobs and businesses leave. He said he wants to help the cities develop economically.

He said it’s important to attract businesses but says his main emphasis is to retain the businesses already established in the Ninth Legislative District. He said there needs to be a better business atmosphere, more health care choices, more insurance companies and he plans to continue supporting schools by ensuring they receive proper funding.

Various experiences have helped him become a leader, Schmick said.

He farmed for 28 years and has owned a business for 14 years. He said he understands what it takes to conduct business in Washington.

He said people should vote for him because he has the most experience. He said since his service as a state representative he’s learned how to navigate the political system and he listens to people.

Schmick said he will work to retain jobs and businesses in his district by making it one of his main priorities. He said several businesses in the district bordering Idaho often leave Washington because it appears to be more appealing to operate businesses in Idaho.

“That has been a big challenge,” he said.

Schmick said he will help increase agriculture opportunities by ensuring no additional restraints are placed on farmers concerning agencies such as the state Department of Labor and Industries and unemployment agencies.

“We need to make sure farmers get a fair shake,” he said.

He said he will ensure educational institutions are properly funded and have the resources they need to operate. Schmick said schools are suffering due to the increasing cost of fuel.

During his service to the state, a bill he sponsored was passed increasing educational opportunities in rural areas. The law requires educational institutions to make access and information about educational opportunities such as online courses, available to students and parents.

“It has been an honor to serve the Ninth District,” he said. “I look forward to challenges ahead.”